Housings and related components for luminaires

ABSTRACT

A housing for a luminaire is disclosed. The housing can include a housing top and a housing body coupled to each other. The housing body can include at least one wall that is bendable to form a cavity. The housing body can also include at least one first housing body coupling feature disposed on a first end, and at least one second complementary housing body coupling feature disposed on the first end adjacent to the at least one first housing body coupling feature. The housing body can further include at least one second housing body coupling feature disposed on a second end, and at least one first complementary housing body coupling feature disposed on the second end adjacent to the at least one second housing body coupling feature.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of and claims priorityunder 35 U.S.C. § 121 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/740,964,entitled “Housings and Related Components For Luminaires” and filed onJun. 16, 2015, which is a continuation application of, and claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/242,396, titled “Housings and Related Components For Luminaires”,filed on Apr. 1, 2014, which itself claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to (1) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/809,167,titled “Next Generation Luminaire”, filed on Apr. 5, 2013, and (2) U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/891,284, titled “RotatableJunction Box Assembly, Interconnecting Luminaire Housing Ends andLuminaire Retention”, filed on Oct. 15, 2013. The entire contents of allof the above-referenced applications are hereby incorporated herein byreference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments described herein relate generally to housings, and moreparticularly to systems, methods, and devices for housings and relatedcomponents for luminaires.

BACKGROUND

Recessed light fixtures are used in many residential, commercial, andindustrial applications. Generally, the space in which to install arecessed light fixture is limited, and so the time to install a recessedlight fixture can be increased when parts of the light fixture (e.g.,the luminaire, the luminaire housing) are cumbersome to install.

SUMMARY

In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to a housing for aluminaire. The housing can include a housing top and a housing bodymechanically coupled to the housing top. The housing body of the housingcan include at least one wall that is bendable to form a cavity, wherethe at least one wall has a first end and a second end. The housing bodyof the housing can also include at least one first housing body couplingfeature disposed on the first end of the at least one first wall. Thehousing body of the housing can further include at least one secondcomplementary housing body coupling feature disposed on the first endadjacent to the at least one first housing body coupling feature. Thehousing body of the housing can also include at least one second housingbody coupling feature disposed on the second end of the at least onewall. The housing body of the housing can further include at least onefirst complementary housing body coupling feature disposed on the secondend adjacent to the at least one second housing body coupling feature.The first housing body coupling feature and the first complementaryhousing body coupling feature can be configured to mechanically coupleto each other. The second housing body coupling feature and the secondcomplementary housing body coupling feature can be configured tomechanically couple to each other.

In another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a luminaire.The luminaire can include a frame having at least one housing couplingfeature. The luminaire can also include a housing mechanically coupledto the frame. The housing of the luminaire can include a housing top anda housing body mechanically coupled to the housing top. The housing bodyof the housing of the luminaire can include at least one first wall thatis bendable to form a first cavity, where the at least one first wallhas a first end and a second end. The housing body of the housing of theluminaire can also include at least one first housing body couplingfeature disposed on the first end of the at least one first wall. Thehousing body of the housing of the luminaire can further include atleast one second complementary housing body coupling feature disposed onthe first end adjacent to the at least one first housing body couplingfeature. The housing body of the housing of the luminaire can alsoinclude at least one second housing body coupling feature disposed onthe second end of the at least one first wall. The housing body of thehousing of the luminaire can further include at least one firstcomplementary housing body coupling feature disposed on the second endadjacent to the at least one second housing body coupling feature. Thehousing body of the housing of the luminaire can also include at leastone frame coupling feature disposed toward a bottom end of the at leastone first wall. The first housing body coupling feature and the firstcomplementary housing body coupling feature can be mechanically coupledto each other. The second housing body coupling feature and the secondcomplementary housing body coupling feature can be mechanically coupledto each other. The at least one housing coupling feature of the frameand the at least one frame coupling feature of the housing body can bemechanically coupled to each other.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a flexconnector. The flex connector can include at least one wall forming acavity. The at least one wall of the flex connector can include a tophaving a curvature and at least one first conduit coupling featureconfigured to abut against a first portion of a conduit disposed in thecavity. The at least one wall of the flex connector can also include atleast one side having at least one second conduit coupling featureconfigured to abut against a second portion of the conduit disposed inthe cavity. The at least one wall of the flex connector can furtherinclude at least one bottom having a housing coupling feature, where thehousing coupling feature is configured to mechanically couple to acomplementary coupling feature disposed on a housing and create anair-tight seal therebetween. The flex connector can also include an endhaving a collar, where the collar is configured to be disposed within anaperture of the housing.

These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will beapparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate only example embodiments of housings and relatedcomponents for luminaires (also called light fixtures) and are thereforenot to be considered limiting of its scope, as housings and relatedcomponents for luminaires may admit to other equally effectiveembodiments. The elements and features shown in the drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearlyillustrating the principles of the example embodiments. Additionally,certain dimensions or positionings may be exaggerated to help visuallyconvey such principles. In the drawings, reference numerals designatelike or corresponding, but not necessarily identical, elements.

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of a luminaire that includes a housing inaccordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 2A-2C show various views of a body of a housing in accordance withcertain example embodiments.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show various side views of a housing in accordance withcertain example embodiments.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show various views of another housing top in accordancewith certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show various views of a thermal protector case coupledto a portion of a housing in accordance with certain exampleembodiments.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a thermal protector case coupled toanother portion of a housing in accordance with certain exampleembodiments.

FIGS. 7A-7C show various views of a flex connector in accordance withcertain example embodiments.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show various views of another flex connector inaccordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show various views of yet another flex connector inaccordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 10A-10F show various views of a flex connector coupled to ahousing in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 11A-11C show various views of a flex connector coupled to aconduit in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 12A-12C show various views of complementary coupling features ofthe housing and frame of a luminaire in accordance with certain exampleembodiments.

FIGS. 13A-13F show various views of a sealing member integrated with aframe in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 14A-14C show various views of a sealing member integrated with ahousing and a frame in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 15A and 15B show various views of a luminaire installed in aceiling in accordance with certain example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The example embodiments discussed herein are directed to systems,apparatuses, and methods of housings and related components forluminaires. While the Figures shown and described herein are directed toluminaires, example housings and/or related components can also be usedin other applications aside from luminaires, including but not limitedto motor control centers, relay cabinets, and enclosures. Thus, theexamples of housings and related components described herein are notlimited to luminaires.

With respect to luminaires, while the example embodiments describedherein are directed to recessed luminaires, example embodiments (orportions thereof) can also be used for non-recessed luminaires. Exampleluminaires can be used with one or more of a number of different typesof lighting systems, including but not limited to light-emitting diode(LED) lighting systems, fluorescent lighting systems, organic LEDlighting systems, incandescent lighting systems, and halogen lightingsystems. Therefore, example embodiments described herein should not beconsidered limited to any particular type of lighting system.

Any example housing, flex connector, thermal protector case, or otherrelated components (or portions (e.g., features) thereof) describedherein can be made from a single piece (as from a mold). When an examplehousing or related component (or portion thereof) is made from a singlepiece, the single piece can be cut out, bent, stamped, and/or otherwiseshaped to create certain features, elements, or other portions of acomponent. For example, as discussed below, at least a portion of theflex connector can be made from a single sheet where various portionsare cut out, bent, shaped, and otherwise manipulated to form an exampleflex connector.

Alternatively, an example housing or related component (or portionsthereof) can be made from multiple pieces that are mechanically coupledto each other. In such a case, the multiple pieces can be mechanicallycoupled to each other using one or more of a number of coupling methods,including but not limited to epoxy, welding, fastening devices,compression fittings, mating threads, and slotted fittings. One or morepieces that are mechanically coupled to each other can be coupled toeach other in one or more of a number of ways, including but not limitedto fixedly, hingedly, removeably, slidably, and threadably.

Components and/or features described herein can include elements thatare described as coupling, fastening, securing, aligning, or othersimilar terms. Such terms are merely meant to distinguish variouselements and/or features within a component or device and are not meantto limit the capability or function of that particular element and/orfeature. For example, a feature described as a “coupling feature” cancouple, secure, fasten, align, and/or perform other functions aside frommerely coupling. In addition, each component and/or feature describedherein can be made of one or more of a number of suitable materials,including but not limited to metal, rubber, and plastic.

A coupling feature (including a complementary coupling feature) asdescribed herein can allow one or more components and/or portions of anexample housing and/or related component to become mechanically coupled,directly or indirectly, to a portion (e.g., a junction box, a frame) ofa luminaire and/or to another portion of the housing and/or relatedcomponent. A coupling feature can include, but is not limited to, aportion of a hinge, an aperture (as shown), a slot, a spring clip, atab, a detent, and a mating thread. An example housing and/or relatedcomponent can be coupled to a frame, a housing, and/or another componentof a luminaire by the direct use of one or more coupling features. Inaddition, or in the alternative, an example housing and/or relatedcomponent can be coupled to a junction box, a frame, and/or anothercomponent of a luminaire using one or more independent devices thatinteract with one or more coupling features disposed on the examplehousing, one or more related components, and/or other component of aluminaire. Examples of such devices can include, but are not limited to,a pin, a hinge, a fastening device (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet), anda spring. One coupling feature described herein can be the same as, ordifferent than, one or more other coupling features described herein.

As described herein, a user can be any person that interacts with anexample housing and/or related component, or a portion thereof. Examplesof a user may include, but are not limited to, an engineer, anelectrician, a maintenance technician, a mechanic, an operator, aconsultant, a contractor, a homeowner, and a manufacturer'srepresentative.

The components of example housings and/or related components describedherein can be physically placed in outdoor environments. In addition, orin the alternative, example housings and/or related components can besubject to extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, humidity, high winds,dust, and other conditions that can cause wear on the housings and/orrelated components, or components thereof. In certain exampleembodiments, the components of housings and/or related components, aswell as any coupling (e.g., mechanical, electrical) between suchcomponents, are made of materials that are designed to maintain along-term useful life and to perform when required without mechanicalfailure.

In one or more example embodiments, one or more components of aluminaire is subject to meeting certain standards and/or requirements.For example, the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM)creates, maintains, and publishes standards that apply to luminaires.For example, the ASTM publishes ASTM E283-04, which is a standard testmethod for determining rate of air leakage through exterior windows,curtain walls, and doors under specified pressure differences across thespecimen.

Examples of other authorities setting standards and/or regulations thatcan apply to example luminaires can include, but are not limited to, theNational Electric Code (NEC), the Canadian Electric Code (CEC), theInternational Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and Underwriter'sLaboratories (UL). As used herein, an air-tight seal describes a sealbetween two or more coupling features of an example luminaire thatallows the luminaire to meet ASTM E283-04 and/or any equivalent thereof.In other words, the term “air-tight seal” used herein is not takenliterally, but rather is defined in context of ASTM E283-04 and/or anyequivalent thereof.

Any component described in one or more figures herein can apply to anysubsequent figures having the same label. In other words, thedescription for any component of a subsequent (or other) figure can beconsidered substantially the same as the corresponding componentdescribed with respect to a previous (or other) figure. The numberingscheme for the components in the figures herein parallel the numberingscheme for the components of previously described figures in that eachcomponent is a three or four digit number having either the identicallast two digits.

Any seal between two or more components (or two or more portions of acomponent) of a luminaire described herein can be an environmental seal.An environmental seal can prevent some or all of a number of elements(e.g., dust, moisture) from penetrating the seal. Such a seal can createa pressurized environment, or the seal can allow some amount of air topass therethrough.

Example embodiments of housings and related components of luminaireswill be described more fully hereinafter with reference to theaccompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of housings andrelated components of luminaires are shown. Housings and relatedcomponents of luminaires may, however, be embodied in many differentforms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodimentsset forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so thatthis disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey thescope of housings and related components of luminaires to those ofordinary skill in the art. Like, but not necessarily the same, elements(also sometimes called components) in the various figures are denoted bylike reference numerals for consistency. Terms such as “first,”“second,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “left,” and “right” are used merelyto distinguish one component (or part of a component or state of acomponent) from another. Such terms are not meant to denote a preferenceor a particular orientation.

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an example luminaire 101 in accordancewith certain example embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one ormore of the components shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted, added, repeated,and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of luminaires with examplehousings and/or related components should not be considered limited tothe specific arrangements of components shown in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 1, the luminaire 101 can include a housing 129 (whichcan include, for example, a housing body 150 (sometimes called a can150) and a housing top 130 (sometimes called a can top 130), a housing150 (sometimes called a can 150)), flexible conduit 102, a frame 105, ajunction box 103, a sealing member 1370, and an optional mountingfeature 107. The optional mounting feature 107 can have any features andconfigurations to mount the rest of the luminaire 101 to one or morestructures (e.g., a wall, a ceiling, a piece of wood, a post). In thisexample, the mounting feature 107 includes one or more hanger bars 108and one or more hanger bar fasteners 109. An optional hanger barfastener 109 can be mechanically coupled to each end of a hanger bar 108and can be mechanically coupled to a surface (e.g., a wall, a piece ofwood, a metal frame, a concrete pillar) that is used to support theluminaire 101.

The housing body 150 of the housing can have any shape and/or sizeappropriate for mechanically coupling to the frame 105. The housing body150 can be used to enclose one or more of a number of components of theluminaire 101. Such components can include, but are not limited to, apower source (e.g., a driver, a ballast), one or more light sources, afan, and a lens. The housing body 150 can be mechanically coupled to thehousing top 130, disposed at the top and/or at some other location onthe housing body 150, to provide access within the housing body 150. Theexample housing body 150 and housing top 130 are described in moredetail below with respect to FIGS. 2A-4B.

In certain example embodiments, the flexible conduit 102 is coupled toboth the junction box 103 and a portion of the housing 129. For example,in this case, the flexible conduit 102 is mechanically coupled to thehousing top 130 of the housing 129. The flexible conduit 102 can be anycomponent that is capable of containing (hosting) one or more electricalwires. In such a case, the flexible conduit 102 can protect the one ormore electrical wires disposed therein from elements (e.g., dirt,moisture) and/or physical harm (e.g., pinching). In some cases, some orall of the flexible conduit 102 is rigid rather than flexible.

Such electrical wires can be used to provide power and/or controlbetween the junction box 103 and the housing 129. Thus, at least part ofthe electrical wire is disposed in the junction box 103, part isdisposed in the flexible conduit 102, and part is disposed in thehousing 129. As the name implies, the flexible conduit 102 is bendableand movable so that one or more components of the luminaire 101,including the flexible conduit 102, can be repositioned or otherwisemoved without becoming decoupled from the junction box 103 and thehousing 129. The junction box 103 can include one or more of a number ofcomponents, including but not limited to terminal blocks, electricaldevices, and other electrical wires.

In certain example embodiments, the frame 105 is formed from a singlepiece. Alternatively, the frame 105 can be an assembly of two or moreframe pieces that are shaped and sized to couple to each other to formthe frame 105. The frame 105 can be mechanically coupled to one or morehanger bars 108 (or other mounting features 107) so that the hanger bars108 extend from the frame 105 in one or more directions. In addition, orin the alternative, the frame 105 can be directly coupled to a mountingsurface to support the luminaire 101. The frame 105 can have any shapeand/or size suitable for the housing 129.

In certain example embodiments, one or more portions (e.g., sides) ofthe frame 105 can include one or more complementary coupling featuresthat receive and/or otherwise couple to one or more coupling features ofthe junction box 103. The sealing member 1370, described in more detailbelow with respect to FIGS. 13A-13F, can be used to reduce or eliminateexternal elements (e.g., moisture, dust) from entering inside thehousing 129. In addition, or in the alternative, the sealing member 1370can be used to seal a gap between the frame 105 and the housing 129.Further, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the sealing member 1370 canreduce or prevent air flow between an external surface (e.g., a ceiling)and the outside of the frame 105 and/or housing 129.

FIGS. 2A-2C show various views of an example housing body 150 of aluminaire in accordance with certain example embodiments. FIG. 2A showsa perspective view of the housing body 150 as a flat sheet. FIGS. 2B and2C show perspective views of the housing body 150 in its normal form. Inone or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIGS.2A-2C may be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly,embodiments of a housing body should not be considered limited to thespecific arrangements of components shown in FIGS. 2A-2C.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2C, in certain example embodiments, the housingbody 150 has at least one wall 159 that forms a cavity 198. Asdescribed, one or more components of the luminaire 101 can be disposedinside the cavity 198 of the housing body 150. The housing body 150 caninclude a top end 166, a bottom end 167, a left end 151, and a right end161. The housing body 150 can include one or more of a number ofcoupling features that can be used to mechanically couple to anotherportion of the housing body 150 and/or to another component of theluminaire 101. The wall 159 of the housing body 150 can be bendable,such that the housing body 150 can be formed into one or more of anumber of shapes. In certain example embodiments, at least one portionof the housing body 150 can be pre-formed to exemplify the shape (e.g.,curvature) of the housing body 150.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the housing body 150 can includeone or more coupling features 152 (also called housing body couplingfeatures 152) and/or one or more coupling features 162 (also calledhousing body coupling features 162). Each coupling feature 152 and eachcoupling feature 162 can be used, directly or indirectly, tomechanically couple one part of the housing body 150 to another part ofthe housing body 150. In this example, the coupling feature 152 and thecoupling features 162 can be used to mechanically couple the left end151 and the right end 161 of the housing body 150 to each other.

In this case, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the coupling feature 152 is a tabdisposed on the distal end of the left end 151. The coupling feature 152can be positioned between (e.g., substantially centered between) twoleft end portions 153, which can also be tabs. In certain exampleembodiments, an open-ended notch 190 is disposed between couplingfeature 152 and each end portion 153. The coupling feature 152 can bevertically offset relative to the left end portions 153. In thisexample, the left end portions 153 are substantially planar with thewall 159 of the housing body 150, while the coupling feature 152 isrecessed lower (when viewing the housing body 150 from the outersurface) relative to the left end portions 153. Similarly, the couplingfeatures 162 in this case is a tab disposed on the distal end of theright end 161. The coupling features 162 can be positioned on eitherside of a right end portion 163, which can also be tabs. In certainexample embodiments, an open-ended notch 187 is disposed between theright end portion 163 and each coupling feature 162. The couplingfeatures 162 can be vertically offset relative to the right end portion163. In this example, the right end portion 163 is substantially planarwith the wall 159 of the housing body 150, while the coupling features162 are recessed lower (when viewing the housing body 150 from the outersurface) relative to the right end portion 163.

In certain example embodiments, the length and width of the couplingfeature 152 is substantially the same as the length and width of theright end portion 163. Similarly, the length and width of the couplingfeatures 162 can be substantially the same as the length and width ofthe left end portion 153. The open-ended notches 187 and the open-endednotches 190 engage with each other, which causes the top of the couplingfeature 152 to abut against (mechanically couple to) the bottom of theright end portion 163 (also called a complementary coupling feature),and the top of the coupling features 162 to abut against the bottom ofthe left end portions 153 (also called a complementary couplingfeatures), which can create an air-tight seal therebetween. For theopen-ended notches 187 and the open-ended notches 190 to engage witheach other, causing the coupling feature 152 to abut against the rightend portion 163 and for the coupling features 162 to abut against theleft end portions 152, the housing body 150 can be bent or otherwiseshaped so that these features align with each other.

The amount that the coupling feature 152 is vertically offset relativeto the left end portions 153 can be substantially the same as the amountthat the coupling features 162 are vertically offset relative to theright end portion 163. In such a case, when the open-ended notches 187and the open-ended notches 190 to engage with each other, causing thecoupling feature 152 to abut against the right end portion 163 and thecoupling features 162 to abut against the left end portions 153, a tightseal is formed along the height of the housing body 150 between the leftend 151 and the right end 161.

In such a case, one or more of the coupling feature 152, the left endportions 153, the coupling features 162, and/or the right end portions163 can include one or more other coupling feature to help secure theleft end 151 of the housing body 150 to the right end 161. For example,as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the coupling feature 152 and the right endportion 163 can each have an aperture that traverses therethrough. Insuch a case, the aperture 154 in the coupling feature 152 and theaperture 164 in the right end portion 163 can have a shape and sizesubstantially the same to each other. Further, the position of theaperture 154 on the coupling feature 152 and the position of theaperture 164 in the right end portion 163 can be such that the aperture154 and the aperture 164 are substantially aligned with each other whenthe coupling feature 152 is mechanically coupled to the right endportion 163. Another coupling device (e.g., a screw, a rivet) can betraverse the aperture 154 and the aperture 164 to secure the couplingfeature 152 to the right end portion 163.

As another example, at least one of the coupling features 162 can have acoupling feature 165 (e.g., a recessed area, a protrusion) disposedthereon. Similarly, at least one of the left end portions 153 can have acoupling feature (e.g., a protrusion, a recessed area) (hidden from viewin this case) that complements the coupling feature 165 and is alignedwith the coupling feature 165 when the coupling features 162 aremechanically coupled to the left end portions 153.

In certain example embodiments, the thickness of the various couplingfeatures (e.g., coupling feature 152, coupling feature 162) along theleft end 151 and the right end 161 have a thickness that issubstantially the same as the thickness of the wall 159. In such a case,one or more coupling features (in this example, coupling feature 152)along the left end 151 can be recessed relative to the one or more othercoupling features (in this example, coupling features 153) along theleft end 151. Similarly, one or more coupling features (in this example,coupling feature 162) along the right end 161 can be recessed relativeto the one or more other coupling features (in this example, couplingfeatures 163) along the right end 161. In this way, when the couplingfeature 152 and the coupling feature 162 are mechanically coupled toeach other and when the coupling features 153 and the coupling features163 are mechanically coupled to each other, the outer surface of thehousing body 150 can be substantially uniform around its perimeter.

The housing body 150 can also include one or more coupling features formechanically coupling the housing body 150 to another component of theluminaire 101. In such cases, an air-tight seal can be formed betweenthe coupling features. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the housingbody 150 can include a coupling feature 157 (also called a sealingmember coupling feature 157) for mechanically coupling the sealingmember 1370 to the housing body 150, which can create an air-tight sealtherebetween. In this case, the coupling feature 157 is a protrusionthat extends some or all of the outer perimeter of the wall 159 and isdisposed toward the bottom end 167. More information about the sealingmember 1370 is described below with respect to FIGS. 13A-14C.

In certain example embodiments, the coupling feature 157 separates alower wall 169 from the wall 159. The lower wall 169 can have can haveone or more aligning features 168 disposed along its outer edge. Suchaligning features 168 in this case are a recess in the outer edge of thelower wall 169. The aligning features 168 can be used, for example, toalign the luminaire 101 to one or more adjacent luminaires.

As another example, one or more coupling features 156 (also calledhousing top coupling features 156) for mechanically coupling the housingtop 130 to the housing body 150, which can create an air-tight sealtherebetween. In this case, the coupling features 156 is a protrusionthat extends some or all of the outer perimeter of the wall 159 and isdisposed toward the top end 166. Additional details about the couplingfeatures 156 are provided below with respect to FIGS. 3A and 3B.

As yet another example, one or more coupling features 155 (also calledthermal protector case coupling features 155) can be disposed on thewall 159 of the housing body 150, which can create an air-tight sealtherebetween. In this example, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the couplingfeatures 155 can be a number of apertures can traverse the thickness ofthe wall 159. The coupling features 155 can be used to receive andcouple to a thermal protector case (e.g., protector case 680) or someother component of the luminaire 101. Examples of a thermal protectorcase is described below with respect to FIGS. 5A-6.

As still another example, one or more coupling features 158 (also calledframe coupling features 158) can be disposed on the wall 159 of thehousing body 150. In this example, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the couplingfeatures 158 can be a number of shaped protrusions each having one ormore apertures (e.g., holes, slots) disposed therein, where eachaperture traverses the thickness of the wall 159 (including theprotrusion of the coupling feature 158). The coupling features 158 canbe used to receive and couple to a portion of the frame 105, which cancreate an air-tight seal therebetween.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show various side views of a housing 129 that includesthe housing body 150 of FIGS. 2A-2C in accordance with certain exampleembodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the componentsshown in FIGS. 3A and 3B may be omitted, added, repeated, and/orsubstituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a housing should not beconsidered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3B, the housing top 130 can be mechanically coupledto the housing body 150 at the top end 166 of the housing body 150,which can create an air-tight seal therebetween. The housing top 130 caninclude a top portion 131, a side portion 136, and an intermediateportion 132 positioned between the top portion 131 and the side portion136. In certain example embodiments, as least part of the intermediateportion 132 includes an interface portion 139 that includes a side wall133 and a bottom wall 138. The side wall 133 can have an aperture 134traversing therethrough. The bottom wall 138 can include one or morecoupling features 135 disposed thereon. In such a case, the bottom wall138 and the side wall 133 of the interface portion 139 can interrupt atleast a portion of the top portion 131 and/or the intermediate portion132.

The aperture 134 in the side wall 133 of the interface portion 139 canhave a shape and size suitable for receiving one or more of a number ofelectrical wires, as well as the flexible conduit 102 into which theelectrical wires can be disposed. The aperture 134 can also have a shapeand size suitable to receive a portion of a flex connector (e.g., flexconnector 710, flex connector 810), as described below with respect toFIGS. 7A-9B.

In this case, the coupling features 135 (also called flex connectorcoupling features 135) disposed on the bottom wall 138 of the interfaceportion 139 can be configured to mechanically couple to a flexconnector, which can create an air-tight seal therebetween. Suchcoupling features 135 can be tabs enclosed on two sides, tabs enclosedon three sides, one or more notches, one or more apertures, or any othersuitable features for receiving corresponding coupling features of aflex connector. The shape and size of the size portion 136 can besubstantially the same as, or slightly larger than, the shape and sizeof the top end 166 of the hosing body 150.

In certain example embodiments, the side portion 136 can include one ormore coupling features 137 (also called housing body coupling features137) for mechanically coupling the housing top 130 to the housing body150, which can create an air-tight seal therebetween. Specifically, thecoupling features 137 can mechanically couple to the coupling features156 of the housing body 150. The coupling features 137 can include, butare not limited to, a detent, a protrusion, a clip, and a recess. Inthis example, the coupling features 137 can be protrusions that slideover the protrusions formed by the coupling features 156. Alternatively,the coupling features 137 can be recesses that receive the protrusionformed by the coupling features 156.

When the coupling features 137 of the housing top 130 mechanicallycouple to the coupling features 156 of the housing body 150, anair-tight seal can be formed between the housing top 130 and the housingbody 150. In addition to meeting ASTM E283-04 and/or an equivalentthereof, the air-tight seal formed between the housing top 130 and thehousing body 150 can prevent one or more elements (e.g., moisture, dust)from outside the housing 129 from entering the cavity 198 of the housing129. In certain example embodiments, one or more additional components(e.g., a sealing member, such as an o-ring or a gasket) can bepositioned between the top end 166 of the housing body 150 and one ormore portions (e.g., the side portion 136) of the housing top 130. Inaddition, or in the alternative, some form of sealant (e.g., caulk) canbe applied to the junction between the housing top 130 and the housingbody 150 by a user to form the seal between the housing top 130 and thehousing body 150.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show various views of another housing top 430 inaccordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 4A showsa top perspective view of the housing top 430, and FIG. 4B shows a crosssectional side view of the a portion of the housing top 430 thatincludes the coupling features 455. The housing top 430 in this case issubstantially the same as the housing top 130 of FIGS. 3A and 3B, exceptas described below. Specifically, the coupling features 455 are disposedon the top portion 431 rather than on the wall 159 of the housing body150, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C.

The coupling features 455 can be the same as, or different than, thecoupling features 155 of FIGS. 2A-2C. In any case, the coupling features455, like the coupling features 155 of FIGS. 2A-2C, are configured tomechanically couple to a thermal protector case, which can create anair-tight seal therebetween. The coupling features 455 of FIGS. 4A and4B can be recessed tabs enclosed on two sides, recessed tabs enclosed onthree sides, one or more notches, one or more apertures, or any othersuitable features for receiving corresponding coupling features of athermal protector case.

Further, the coupling features 137 of the housing top 130 shown in FIGS.3A and 3B above are not part of the side portion 436 of the housing top430 of FIGS. 4A and 4B. Instead, the equivalent of the coupling features137 can be disposed on the inner surface of the side portion 436, hiddenfrom view in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Alternatively, the side portion 436 of thehousing top 430 can be without any coupling features.

The coupling features 435 and/or the coupling feature 455 can bedisposed in one or more other locations on the housing top 430. Inaddition, or in the alternative, coupling features 435 and/or thecoupling feature 455 can be disposed on one or more other components ofthe luminaire, including but not limited to a socket assembly, afloating connector to a light engine (e.g., light-emitting diodedriver), and a light engine. Thus, the flex connector 102 can bemechanically coupled to the housing 429 (e.g., the housing top 430), asocket assembly, a floating connector to a light engine (e.g.,light-emitting diode driver), a light engine, and/or some othercomponent of the luminaire.

As generally described above with respect to coupling features describedherein, the coupling features 435 and/or the coupling feature 455 can bedisposed on the housing top 430 can be part of a single piece with thehousing top 430 (as from a mold or stamping the coupling features fromthe housing top 430), housing body 450, and/or other component of theluminaire. Alternatively, the coupling features 435 and/or the couplingfeature 455 can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to thehousing top 430, housing body 450, and/or other component of theluminaire using one or more of a number of methods, including but notlimited to welding, epoxy, fastening devices, and compression fittings.The coupling features can be recessed (as with the coupling features 455shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B) or protruding (as with the coupling features435) relative to a surface of a component (e.g., the housing top 430,the housing body 450).

FIGS. 5A and 5B show various views of a thermal protector case 580coupled to a portion of the housing top 430 of FIGS. 4A and 4B inaccordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 5A showsa bottom perspective view of the thermal protector case 580 and thehousing top 430, and FIG. 4B shows a cross sectional side view of the aportion of the housing top 430 that includes the coupling features 455.In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIGS.5A and 5B may be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted.Accordingly, embodiments of a housing top and thermal protector caseshould not be considered limited to the specific arrangements ofcomponents shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B.

Referring to FIGS. 1-5B, the thermal protector case 580 can be used toencase a thermally-sensitive device. Examples of such athermally-sensitive device can include, but are not limited to, a sensorand a thermocouple. In certain example embodiments, the thermalprotector case 580 can include one or more coupling features 586 (alsocalled housing top coupling features 586 or, if the coupling features455 are disposed on the housing body, as in FIGS. 2A-2C, the housingbody coupling features) the that mechanically couple to correspondingcoupling features (e.g., coupling features 455) of another component(e.g., the housing top 430) of the luminaire. When this occurs, thethermal protector case 580 can be mechanically coupled to that componentof the luminaire, which can create an air-tight seal therebetween. Inthis example, the coupling features 586 of the thermal protector case580 can be tabs that each can mechanically couple to the couplingfeatures 455 of the housing top 430. In the example shown in FIGS. 5Aand 5B, each of the coupling features 586 of the thermal protector case580 is disposed within each of the coupling features 455 of the housingtop 430.

In certain example embodiments, the thermal protector case 580 can alsoinclude a body 582 and one or more sides (e.g., side 584, side 585, side588) that extend from an outer portion of the body 582. One or more ofthe coupling features 586 of the thermal protector case 580 can becoupled to a side of the thermal protector case 580. For example, acoupling feature 586 can be disposed on an outer edge of side 584, andanother coupling feature 586 can be disposed on an outer edge of side585. A side (e.g., side 584, side 585, side 588) of the thermalprotector case 580 can be disposed at an angle (e.g., 90°) relative tothe body 582. Similarly, a coupling feature 586 can be disposed at anangle (e.g., 90°) relative to the corresponding side.

To allow the coupling features 586 of the thermal protector case 580 tobe disposed within each of the corresponding coupling features 455 ofthe housing top 430, one or more portions of the thermal protector case580 can be flexible and/or movable (e.g., extendable, slidable). Forexample, one or more of the coupling features 586 can be retractable. Asanother example, the body 582 and/or sides (e.g., side 584, side 585) ofthe thermal protector case 580 can be flexible. When viewing the housingtop 430 from the outside when the thermal protector case 580 ismechanically coupled to the housing top 430, at least part of thecoupling features 586 of the thermal protector case 580 can be seenthrough the coupling features 455 in the housing top 430.

In certain example embodiments, when the thermal protector case 580 ismechanically coupled to the housing top 430, some or all of the thermalprotector case 580 creates an air-tight (or nearly air-tight) seal withthe housing top 430. As a result, there may be no sealing device (e.g.,gasket, silicone) needed to prevent dust, moisture, and othercontaminants from entering the housing 429. In addition to meeting ASTME283-04 and/or an equivalent thereof, a sealing member, a user-appliedsealant, and/or some other device can be used to create the air-tightseal between the thermal protector case 580 and the housing top 430. Theair-tight seal created between the thermal protector case 580 and thehousing top 430 can prevent air from within the housing 429 fromescaping.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a thermal protector case 680 coupledto the housing body 650 in accordance with certain example embodiments.In this example, as shown in FIG. 6, the coupling features 655 thatcomplement the coupling features 686 of the thermal protector case 680are disposed on the wall 659 of the housing body 650 (as opposed to, orin addition to, the thermal top). As a result, the thermal protectorcase 680 is disposed inside the housing 629 when the coupling features686 of the thermal protector case 680 are mechanically coupled to thecoupling features 655, which can create an air-tight seal therebetween.In the orientation shown in FIG. 6, the wall 688 of the thermalprotector case 680 has a curved distal portion that abuts against thebottom wall 638 of the housing top 630.

FIGS. 7A-7C show various views of a flex connector 710 in accordancewith certain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 7A shows a topperspective view of the flex connector 710. FIG. 7B shows a sideperspective view of the flex connector 710. FIG. 7C shows a top view ofthe flex connector 710 in a flat form. In one or more embodiments, oneor more of the components shown in FIGS. 7A-7C may be omitted, added,repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a flexconnector should not be considered limited to the specific arrangementsof components shown in FIGS. 7A-7C.

Referring to FIGS. 1-7C, in certain example embodiments, the flexconnector 710 can include one or more coupling features 718 (also calledhousing top coupling features 718) that allow the flex connector 710 tomechanically couple to the coupling features (e.g., coupling features435) of a housing top (e.g., housing top 430). In this example, couplingfeatures 718 of the flex connector 710 are tabs that can be disposedwithin the coupling features of a housing top. The coupling features 718can be disposed on each side of the body 712 of the flex connector 710.A coupling feature 718 can include one or more elements (e.g., adownward protruding element (as shown in FIGS. 7A-7C), an upwardprotruding element) to help secure the coupling feature 718 to acomplementary coupling feature (e.g., coupling feature 455).

Each coupling feature 718 can be disposed on (e.g., mechanically coupledto, a portion of) a bottom 717 of the flex connector 710. In this case,each coupling feature 718 is an extension of the bottom 717 and aredisposed on a distal end of the bottom 717. Each bottom 717 can beadjacent to a side 716 of the flex connector 710, and each side 716 canbe adjacent to a top 712 of the flex connector 710. In some cases, asshown in FIGS. 7A-7C, an apex 711 of the flex connector 710 can bedisposed between adjacent tops 712.

To allow the coupling features 718 of the flex connector 710 to bedisposed within each of the complementary coupling features (e.g.,coupling feature 455 of the housing top 430), one or more portions ofthe flex connector 710 can be flexible and/or movable (e.g., extendable,slidable). For example, one or more of the coupling features 718 can beretractable. As another example, the flex connector 710 can be flexible,so that the sides 716 and/or the tops 712 of the flex connector 710 canbe pinched inward momentarily by a user.

In certain example embodiments, the flex connector 710 can have one ormore of a number of coupling features 719 (also called flex connectorcoupling features 719) disposed in the sides 716 and/or the tops 712 ofthe flex connector 710. In this example, the coupling features 719 aretabs. The coupling features 719 can be used to secure at least part of acomponent (e.g., flexible conduit 102) of the luminaire. Such couplingfeatures 719 can be fixed or adjustable, and can extend inward or insome other suitable direction relative to the sides 716 and/or the tops712 of the flex connector 710. In this example, the coupling features719 are stamped out of the sides 716 and/or the tops 712 of the flexconnector 710, leaving apertures 707 that traverse therethrough. In sucha case, the coupling features 719 can be bent into position so that eachcoupling feature 719 is pointed inward toward the cavity 715 formed bythe sides 716 and the tops 712 of the flex connector 710. A couplingfeatures 719 can have different shapes and/or or sizes relative to theshapes and sizes of the other coupling features 719 of the flexconnector 710.

In certain example embodiments, the flex connector 710 includes anaperture 708, through which one or more components (e.g., wires, cables)of the luminaire can extend. The aperture 708 can be bounded by a collar714 disposed on an end 713 of the flex connector 710. The end 713 of theflex connector 710 can be set at an angle relative to the bottom 717 ofthe flex connector 710 so as to be substantially the same as the anglebetween the bottom wall (e.g., bottom wall 138) and the side wall (e.g.,side wall 133) of the interface portion (e.g., interface portion 139) ofthe housing top (e.g., housing top 130). In other words, the anglebetween the end 713 and the bottom 717 of the flex connector 710 allowsthe end 713 to abut substantially flush against the side wall of theinterface portion of the housing top, and also allows the bottom 717 toabut substantially flush against the bottom wall of the interfaceportion of the housing top.

The collar 714 can have a size, shape, and other dimensions (e.g.,thickness, width) that allow the collar 714 of the flex connector 710 tofit within the aperture (e.g., aperture 634) in a housing top (e.g.,housing top 630). When the collar 714 is disposed within the aperture inthe housing top, an air-tight seal can be formed therebetween. Thecollar 714 can have a rolled (smooth) edge to reduce the possibility ofa wire or cable of getting cut or pinched. A seal can be formed betweenthe collar 714 of the flex connector 710 and the housing top 630.

As FIG. 7C shows, the flex connector 710 can be created by cutting,pressing, stamping, bending, and/or otherwise manipulating a continuoussheet of some material (e.g., metal, plastic, rubber). Some apertures(e.g., aperture 708, apertures 707) of the flex connector 710 can bestamped out of the sheet. Multiple flex connectors 710 can be createdfrom a single sheet.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show various views of another flex connector 810 inaccordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 8A showsa top perspective view of the flex connector 810. FIG. 8B shows a bottomperspective view of the flex connector 810. The flex connector 810 ofFIGS. 8A and 8B is substantially the same as the flex connector 710 ofFIGS. 7A-7C, except that the shape and orientation of the couplingfeatures 818 of the flex connector 810 are different than the shape andorientation of the coupling features 718 of the flex connector 710.

Similarly, FIGS. 9A and 9B show various views of yet another flexconnector 910 in accordance with certain example embodiments.Specifically, FIG. 9A shows a top perspective view of the flex connector910. FIG. 9B shows a bottom view of the flex connector 910. The flexconnector 910 of FIGS. 9A and 9B is substantially the same as the flexconnector 710 of FIGS. 7A-7C and the flex connector 810 of FIGS. 8A and8B, except as described below.

The flex connector 910 does not have an apex. In other words, there isone continuous top 912 that covers the middle portion of the flexconnector 910. Further, the apertures 907 in the top 912 and sides 916of the flex connector of FIGS. 9A and 9B are shaped in substantialrectangles, as opposed to the corresponding apertures of the flexconnector 710 and the flex connector 810, which are irregularly shaped.In addition, the flex connector 910 includes one or more couplingfeatures 991 (also called flex connector coupling features 991) disposedon the outer edge of the end 913 of the flex connector 910. Eachcoupling feature 991 can be movable relative to the end 913. In thisexample, each coupling feature 991 can be positioned over acomplementary coupling feature (hidden from view by the coupling feature991) (e.g., a protrusion, a slot) disposed in one or both sides 916 sothat the coupling feature 991 can be mechanically coupled to a side 916.Alternatively, the coupling feature 991 can be disposed on a side 916and movable relative to the side 916. In such a case, the couplingfeature 991 can be positioned over a complementary coupling featuredisposed on the end 913.

FIGS. 10A-10F show various views of a subsystem 1000 of the luminairethat includes a flex connector 1010 coupled to a housing top 1030 inaccordance with certain example embodiments. FIG. 10A shows a topperspective view of the subsystem 1000. FIG. 10B shows a top view of thesubsystem 1000. FIG. 10C shows a rear view of the subsystem 1000. FIG.10D shows a bottom view of the subsystem 1000. FIGS. 10E and 10F eachshow a cross-sectional perspective view of the subsystem 1000. In one ormore embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIGS. 10A-10Fmay be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly,embodiments of a flex connector coupled to a housing top should not beconsidered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown inFIGS. 10A-10F.

Referring to FIGS. 1-10F, when viewing the housing top 1030 from theinside when the flex connector 1010 is mechanically coupled to thehousing top 1030, at least part of the coupling features 1018 of theflex connector 1010 can be seen through the apertures in the housing top1030 created by the coupling features 1035 of the bottom wall 1038. Thecollar 1014 of the flex connector 1010 can be disposed within theaperture 1034 that traverses the side wall 1033 of the interface portion1039 of the housing top 1030. In such a case, the collar 1014 of theflex connector 1010 can be mechanically coupled to the side wall 1033 ofthe interface portion 1039 of the housing top 1030.

In certain example embodiments, when the collar 1014 of the flexconnector 1010 is mechanically coupled to the side wall 1033 of theinterface portion 1039 of the housing top 1030, some or all of thecollar 1014 and/or the end 1013 of the flex connector 1010 creates anair-tight (or nearly air-tight) seal with the housing top 1030. As aresult, there may be no sealing member (e.g., gasket, silicone, o-ring)needed to meet the requirements under ASTM E283-04 (and/or an equivalentthereof), and/or to prevent dust, moisture, and/or other contaminantsfrom entering the housing 1029 where the flex connector 1010 ismechanically coupled to the housing top 1030. In addition, or in thealternative, the air-tight seal created between the flex connector 1010and the housing top 1030 can prevent air from within the housing 1029from escaping. The air-tight seal can be formed where the collar 1013couples to the side wall 1033 of the interface portion 1039 of thehousing top 1030 and/or where the coupling features 1018 of the flexconnector 1010 couple to the coupling features 1035 of the housing top1030.

The position and/or orientation of the coupling features 1018 of theflex connector 1010, the coupling features 1035 of the housing top 1030,the collar 1013 of the flex connector 1010, and the aperture 1034 in theside wall 1033 of the housing top 1030 can be such that the end 1013 ofthe flex connector 1010 abuts against the side wall 1033 and the bottom1017 of the flex connector 1010 abuts against the bottom wall 1038 ofthe housing top 1030 when the coupling features 1035 are engaged withthe coupling features 1018 and when the collar 1014 is engaged with theside wall 1033 at the aperture 1034.

FIGS. 11A-11C show various views of a subsystem 1100 that includes aflex connector 1110 coupled to a flexible conduit 1102 in accordancewith certain example embodiments. FIG. 11A shows a perspective view ofthe subsystem 1100. FIG. 11B shows a top view of the subsystem 1100.FIG. 11C shows a bottom perspective view of the subsystem 1100. In oneor more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIGS.11A-11C may be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted.Accordingly, embodiments of a flex connector coupled to a flexibleconduit should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements ofcomponents shown in FIGS. 11A-11C.

Referring to FIGS. 1-11C, the various coupling features 1119 of the flexconnector 1110 can be positioned (e.g., bent) in such a way in thecavity 1115 of the flex connector 1110 so as to secure the flexibleconduit 1102. For example, the coupling features 1119 disposed in thesides 1116 of the flex connector 1110 can be bent inward to abut againstthe bottom portion of the flexible conduit 1102, while the couplingfeatures 1119 disposed in the tops 1112 of the flex connector 1110 canbe bent inward to abut against the top portion of the flexible conduit1102. Further, the distal end of the flexible conduit 1102 can abutagainst the inner surface of the end 1113 of the flex connector 1110.

The coupling features 1119 can be moved into position after the flexibleconduit 1102 is disposed within the cavity 1115 of the flex connector1110. In such a case, flex connector 1110 can be used to house any of anumber of sizes of flexible conduits 1102. The coupling features 1119can be spaced in such a way as to allow the flexible conduit 1102 to fitbetween the coupling features 1119 within the cavity 1115. In addition,or in the alternative, one or more of the coupling features 1119 can bepositioned within the cavity 1115 in such a way as to substantiallymatch the pitch of the flexible conduit 1102. In such a case, thecoupling features 1119 can act as threads so that the flexible conduit1102 can be rotated further into or out of the cavity 1115 of the flexconnector 1110 using the coupling features 1119.

FIGS. 12A-12C show various perspective views of a subsystem 1200 thatincludes a housing body 1250 coupled to a frame 1205 in accordance withcertain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 12A shows a couplingfeature 1206 of the frame 1205 that is initially engaged with thecoupling feature 1258 of the housing body 1250 by a fastening device1292 (e.g., a screw). FIGS. 12B and 12C shows the coupling feature 1206of the frame 1205 fully engaged with the coupling feature 1258 of thehousing body 1250 by the fastening device 1292. In one or moreembodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIGS. 12A-12C may beomitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodimentsof a housing body coupled to a frame should not be considered limited tothe specific arrangements of components shown in FIGS. 12A-12C.

Referring to FIGS. 1-12C, the fastening device 1292 can be directed fromwithin the cavity 1298 of the housing body 1250, through an aperture inthe wall 1259 of the housing body 1250, and through an aperture in thecoupling feature 1206 (also called a housing coupling feature) of theframe 1205. As the fastening device 1292 is driven further outward, thecoupling feature 1206 of the frame 1205 is drawn toward the couplingfeature 1258 disposed on the wall 1259 of the housing body 1250.Eventually, substantially all of the coupling feature 1206 abuts againstsubstantially all of the coupling feature 1258 disposed on the wall 1259of the housing body 1250. The frame 1205 can have more than one couplingfeature 1206.

As described above, each coupling feature 1258 disposed on the housingbody 1250 can be a protrusion from the wall 1259 of the housing body1250. As the fastening device 1292 draws the housing coupling feature1206 of the frame 1205 toward the coupling feature 1258, the couplingfeature 1258 can become deformed so that an air-tight seal can be formedbetween the housing coupling feature 1206 of the frame 1205 and thecoupling feature 1258. In so doing, any portions of the aperture (in thecase of a slot) in the coupling feature not occupied by the fasteningdevice 1292 is covered by the housing coupling feature 1206. Further,because the coupling feature 1258 can be deformed to form an air-tightseal with the housing coupling feature 1206, the cylindrical shape ofthe wall 1259 and the rest of the housing body 1250 can remainsubstantially unchanged (little or no deformity), which allows the othercoupling features disposed on the housing body 1250 to maintain anair-tight seal with the corresponding coupling features to which theycouple.

In certain example embodiments, when the coupling feature 1206 of theframe 1205 is mechanically coupled to the coupling feature 1258 disposedon the wall 1259 of the housing body 1250, some or all of the couplingfeature 1206 of the frame 1205 creates an air-tight (or nearlyair-tight) seal with the coupling feature 1258 disposed on the wall 1259of the housing body 1250. As a result, there may be no sealing member(e.g., gasket, silicone, o-ring) needed to prevent dust, moisture,and/or other contaminants from entering the housing 1229 where thecoupling feature 1206 is mechanically coupled to the coupling feature1258. In addition, or in the alternative, the air-tight seal createdbetween the coupling feature 1206 and the coupling feature 1258 canprevent air from within the housing 1229 from escaping.

FIGS. 13A-13F show various views of a subsystem 1300 that includes asealing member 1370 integrated with a frame 1305 in accordance withcertain example embodiments. FIG. 13A shows a top view of the subsystem1300. FIG. 13B shows a cross-sectional side view of the sealing member1370. FIGS. 13C and 13D show cross-sectional side views of a portion ofthe subsystem 1300. FIG. 13E shows a top perspective view of thesubsystem 1300 without the sealing member 1370. FIG. 13F shows a topperspective view of the subsystem 1300 with the sealing member 1370. Inone or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIGS.13A-13F may be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted.Accordingly, embodiments of a sealing member coupled to a frame shouldnot be considered limited to the specific arrangements of componentsshown in FIGS. 13A-13F.

Referring to FIGS. 1-13F, the sealing member 1370 can be a flexiblematerial that helps keep some or all of a number of elements (e.g.,dust, moisture) from entering the cavity 1398 of the housing 1329. Thesealing member 1370 can be made of one or more of a number of materials,including but not limited to an elastomeric, rubber, plastic, and paper.The frame 1305 can have one or more walls that form a channel 1349 intowhich some or all of the sealing member 1370 can be disposed. Forexample, as shown in FIGS. 13A-13F, the frame 1305 can include a anouter wall 1395 (also called a base wall), a right side wall 1394, a topwall 1393, and a left side wall 1396 that is disposed over some or allof the perimeter of the frame and form a cavity 1397 therebetween. Theshape and size of the cavity 1397 formed by the various walls(particularly the left side wall 1396) of the frame 1305 can besubstantially the same as (or slightly larger than) the shape and sizeof the cavity formed by the bottom end of the housing body.

In its natural state, the sealing member 1370 can appear as shown inFIG. 13B. In this example, the sealing member 1370 can have a roundedtop 1371 having an extension 1373 on each side of the top 1371, a base1372, and one or more sides 1374. In this case, there are two sides 1374that form, along with the top 1371 and the base 1372, a cavity 1375. Thecavity 1375 can have a width, formed by the sides 1374. Each extension1373 can extend laterally beyond the sides 1374, and the width of thebase 1372 can also be larger than the width of the cavity 1375. Further,as shown in FIG. 3B, the width of the base 1372 can be larger than thewidth of the top 1371, including the extensions 1373.

In certain example embodiments, the boundaries of the channel 1349 inwhich the sealing member 1370 is disposed can change along its length.For example, as shown in FIG. 13C, the channel 1349 can be defined bythe right side wall 1394, the top wall 1393, and the left side wall1396. In such a case, the width of the channel 1349 can be less than thewidth of the top 1371 with the extensions 1373. As a result, theextensions 1373 are forced inward, causing the top 1371 and the sides1374 to be compressed and deformed. This compression and deformation ofthe top 1371 and the sides 1374 can cause one or more seals to formbetween the sealing member 1370 and the right side wall 1394, the topwall 1393, and/or the left side wall 1396. In addition, with an upwardforce applied to the sealing member 1370 and/or a downward force appliedto the frame 1305 can create a seal between the base 1372 of the sealingmember 1370 and the outer wall 1395.

As another example of how the boundaries of the channel 1349 in whichthe sealing member 1370 is disposed can change along its length, asshown in FIG. 13D, the channel 1349 can be defined by the top wall 1393and the left side wall 1396, without the right side wall 1394. As aresult, one the left extension 1373 of the sealing member 1370 is forcedinward, causing part of the top 1371 and one of the sides 1374 to becompressed and deformed. This compression and deformation of the top1371 and the left side 1374 can create one or more seals with the rightside wall 1394 and/or the top wall 1393. In addition, with an upwardforce applied to the sealing member 1370 and/or a downward force appliedto the frame 1305 can create a seal between the base 1372 of the sealingmember 1370 and the outer wall 1395.

In certain example embodiments, the sealing member 1370 can form acontinuous loop. In other words, the sealing member 1370 can have notends. Alternatively, the sealing member 1370 can be have two ends thatabut against each other when the sealing member 1370 is disposed in thechannel 1349 of the frame 1305. In such a case, the sealing member 1370can be cut to a length that is substantially the same as the length ofthe channel 1349 of the frame 1305 in which the sealing member 1370 isdisposed. FIGS. 13E and 13F show the coupling feature 1306 of the frame1305. Here, the aperture 1327 through which a fastening device (e.g.,fastening device 1292 described above with respect to FIGS. 12A-12C) canbe disposed.

The frame 1305 can include one or more of a number of protruding members1389 (e.g., tabs) that are used to secure the vertical position of thesealing member 1370 relative to the frame 1305. For example, protrudingmembers 1389 can be disposed adjacent to and on either side of anoptional aperture 1348 formed in the frame 1305 by the coupling feature1306. In addition, or in the alternative, the protruding members 1389can be disposed at one or more other locations along the channel 1349,as shown in FIG. 13A, regardless of whether one or more optionalapertures 1348 in the frame 1305 exist. The protruding members 1389 canextend inward toward the channel 1349 to the extent that the protrudingmembers 1389 are disposed between one of the extensions 1373 of the top1371, the base 1372, and one of the sides 1374 of the sealing member1370. In certain example embodiments, the protruding members 1389 abutagainst one or more of the extensions 1373 of the top 1371, the base1372, and one of the sides 1374 of the sealing member 1370.

FIGS. 14A-14C show various views of a portion of a luminaire 1400 thatincludes a sealing member 1470 integrated with a housing 1429 and aframe 1405 in accordance with certain example embodiments. FIG. 14Ashows a bottom exploded view of the portion of the luminaire 1400. FIG.14B shows a bottom view of the portion of the luminaire 1400. FIG. 14Cshows a side perspective cross-sectional view of the portion of theluminaire 1400. In one or more embodiments, one or more of thecomponents shown in FIGS. 14A-14C may be omitted, added, repeated,and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a luminaire should notbe considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shownin FIGS. 14A-14C.

The luminaire 1400 of FIGS. 14A-14C is substantially similar to thesubsystem 1300 of FIGS. 13A-13F, except that the luminaire 1400 includesthe housing 1429. Referring to FIGS. 1-14C, the coupling feature 1457disposed on the housing body 1450 can be disposed below, and abutagainst, the base 1472 of the sealing member 1470. In such a case, thecoupling feature 1457 can help (in addition to the protruding members1489 of the frame 1405) to secure the sealing member 1470 relative tothe frame 1405 and the housing 1429. In addition, the coupling feature1457 of the housing body 1450 can apply a compressive force against thebase 1472 of the sealing member 1470, forming a seal between thecoupling feature 1457 and the base 1472.

FIGS. 15A and 15B shows various views of a lighting system 1599 thatincludes a luminaire 1501 installed in a ceiling 1579 in accordance withcertain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 15A shows across-sectional side view of the lighting system 1599, and FIG. 15Bshows a detailed cross sectional side view of the components adjacent tothe sealing member 1570. In this case, the sealing member 1570 canreduce or prevent air flow between an external surface 1579 (e.g., aceiling) and the outside of the frame 1505 and/or housing 1529. Inaddition, or in the alternative, the sealing member 1570 can be used toseal a gap 1578 between the frame 1505 and the external surface 1579and/or between the housing 1529 (e.g., the lower wall 1569) and theexternal surface 1579.

Certain example embodiments provide a number of benefits. Examples ofsuch benefits include, but are not limited to, use of fewer materials,simplified installation, simplified inspection, simplified maintenance,installation of a luminaire in relatively small spaces, and reducedcost. Example housings and related components described herein alsoallow for increased flexibility for manufacturing, installing, and/ormaintaining a luminaire.

Although embodiments described herein are made with reference to exampleembodiments, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatvarious modifications are well within the scope and spirit of thisdisclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the exampleembodiments described herein are not limited to any specificallydiscussed application and that the embodiments described herein areillustrative and not restrictive. From the description of the exampleembodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein will suggestthemselves to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructing otherembodiments using the present disclosure will suggest themselves topractitioners of the art. Therefore, the scope of the exampleembodiments is not limited herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An interface on a luminaire for a luminairecomponent, the interface comprising: a housing of the luminaire, whereinthe housing comprises at least one housing wall; and at least oneluminaire component coupling feature disposed on the at least onehousing wall, wherein the at least one luminaire component couplingfeature comprises a tab receiver protruding from the at least onehousing wall forming a slot that is enclosed on at least two sides bythe at least one housing wall and that is non-planar with the at leastone housing wall, wherein the at least one luminaire component couplingfeature is configured to receive at least one housing coupling featureof the luminaire component, wherein the at least one housing couplingfeature comprises a tab that extends from a body of the luminairecomponent, wherein the tab receiver of the at least one luminairecomponent coupling feature forms an air-tight seal with the tab of theat least one housing coupling feature when the tab is received by theslot of the tab receiver, wherein the tab receiver of the at least oneluminaire component coupling feature is recessed relative to the atleast one housing wall of the housing of the luminaire.
 2. The interfaceof claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the at least one luminairecomponent coupling feature is visible from inside the housing wall whenthe at least one housing coupling feature of the luminaire component iscoupled to the at least one luminaire component coupling feature.
 3. Theinterface of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the at least onehousing coupling feature is visible from outside the housing wall whenthe at least one housing coupling feature of the luminaire component iscoupled to the at least one luminaire component coupling feature.
 4. Theinterface of claim 1, wherein the at least one luminaire componentcoupling feature is formed by stamping a portion of the housing wall. 5.The interface of claim 1, wherein the at least one luminaire componentcoupling feature is configured to complement the at least one housingcoupling feature of the luminaire component.
 6. The interface of claim1, wherein the luminaire component comprises a body that is flexible. 7.The interface of claim 1, wherein the luminaire component comprises aflex connector.
 8. The interface of claim 1, wherein the luminairecomponent comprises a thermal protector case.
 9. An interface on aluminaire for a luminaire component, the interface comprising: a housingof the luminaire, wherein the housing comprises at least one housingwall; and at least one luminaire component coupling feature disposed onthe at least one housing wall, wherein the at least one luminairecomponent coupling feature comprises a tab receiver protruding from theat least one housing wall forming a slot that is enclosed on at leasttwo sides by the at least one housing wall and that is non-planar withthe at least one housing wall, wherein the at least one luminairecomponent coupling feature is configured to receive at least one housingcoupling feature of the luminaire component, wherein the at least onehousing coupling feature comprises a tab that extends from a body of theluminaire component, wherein the tab receiver of the at least oneluminaire component coupling feature forms an air-tight seal with thetab of the at least one housing coupling feature when the tab isreceived by the slot of the tab receiver, wherein the tab receiver ofthe at least one luminaire component coupling feature is protrudingrelative to the at least one housing wall of the housing of theluminaire.
 10. The interface of claim 9, wherein at least a portion ofthe at least one luminaire component coupling feature is visible frominside the housing wall when the at least one housing coupling featureof the luminaire component is coupled to the at least one luminairecomponent coupling feature.
 11. The interface of claim 9, wherein atleast a portion of the at least one housing coupling feature is visiblefrom outside the housing wall when the at least one housing couplingfeature of the luminaire component is coupled to the at least oneluminaire component coupling feature.
 12. The interface of claim 9,wherein the at least one luminaire component coupling feature is formedby stamping a portion of the housing wall.
 13. The interface of claim 9,wherein the at least one luminaire component coupling feature isconfigured to complement the at least one housing coupling feature ofthe luminaire component.
 14. The interface of claim 9, wherein theluminaire component comprises a body that is flexible.
 15. The interfaceof claim 9, wherein the luminaire component comprises a flex connector.16. The interface of claim 9, wherein the luminaire component comprisesa thermal protector case.